Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Apr 10th, 2016 3:00PM

The alpine rating is below threshold, the treeline rating is below threshold, and the below treeline rating is below threshold. Known problems include Cornices, Loose Wet and Wet Slabs.

triley, Avalanche Canada

Cariboos.

Spring conditions. Avalanche danger is expected to rise during the day due to continued high freezing levels and periods of strong solar radiation. Plan to travel early and monitor crusts carefully as conditions may change rapidly.

Summary

Weather Forecast

Cloud developing overnight should reduce solar radiation on Monday, however the freezing level is not expected to drop below 2200 metres. Unsettled weather during the day on Monday is expected to result in flurries in the alpine, and light rain at lower elevations. Wind increasing to moderate southwest on Tuesday combined with light precipitation and freezing levels around 2000 metres. Unsettled conditions on Wednesday with freezing levels dropping down to 1500 metres.

Avalanche Summary

Loose moist or wet avalanche activity was reported from Clemina Creek area on Sunday. Most commercial operations in the region have closed for the season, and data has become sparse. Expect this spring cycle to continue until cooler weather arrives.

Snowpack Summary

The snow surface is currently going through a typical spring melt-freeze cycle on all aspects and at all elevations, except possibly high true-north slopes which could be holding onto cold snow. A moist/wet, isothermal, and rapidly melting snowpack exists on all aspects below around 1500 m and probably even higher on solar aspects. The strength (thickness) of the surface crust and how quickly it breaks down during the day are important factors to focus on.

Problems

Cornices

Natural cornice falls continue to be a concern during periods of strong solar and high freezing levels.

Give cornices a wide berth when travelling on or below ridges.>Cornices become weak with daytime heating, so travel early on exposed slopes.>

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 5

Loose Wet

Loose wet avalanche activity may continue on slopes that are exposed to strong solar radiation. Below treeline all aspects are suspect during periods of high freezing levels, the likelihood will increase if we get some rain.

Avoid sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong, especially if snow is moist or wet.>Be alert to conditions that change with elevation.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Possible - Likely

Expected Size

1 - 2

Wet Slabs

The potential exists for large and destructive wet slabs when the sun is strong and temperatures are high, especially if there was little or no overnight refreeze.

Avoid sun exposed slopes when the solar radiation is strong, especially if snow is moist or wet.>Be aware of the potential for large, deep avalanches.>

Aspects: All aspects.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

3 - 6

Valid until: Apr 11th, 2016 2:00PM